$14M Settlement Settled in Wrongful Conviction Case

$14M Settlement Settled in Wrongful Conviction Case

Introduction

A man who spent over 20 years in prison for a double homicide he did not commit has reached a $14 million settlement in a wrongful conviction lawsuit. The man was originally convicted in 1996 for the double homicide but was exonerated in 2019 after new evidence came to light.

Settlement Highlights Innocence and Resilience

The man’s attorneys described the settlement as a strong acknowledgment of his innocence and praised his resilience through 23 years of wrongful imprisonment. “This $14 million settlement speaks unequivocally to the man's innocence, and to his unwavering perseverance, dignity, and strength in the face of tremendous suffering,” his attorney said in a statement.

Police Department Response and Future Commitment

A spokesperson for the Kansas City, Missouri Police Department confirmed the settlement, stating that the payment will be made over the next four fiscal years. The department emphasized that the settlement does not imply any admission of liability or wrongdoing.

The Board of Police Commissioners said the lawsuit involved former personnel and events from nearly three decades ago. They expressed that the department has learned important lessons from the litigation and is committed to using those insights to improve police services in Kansas City.

Looking Ahead

The statement concluded with appreciation for the man’s “reasoned and sincere efforts” to reach the settlement and extended good wishes to him and his family as they move forward.